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Building Inclusive Disaster Management Systems: Opportunities and Constraints in Addressing the Needs of the Vulnerable

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Cyclones in Southern Africa

Abstract

Extreme events such as cyclones lead to massive loss of lives and properties and erode developmental gains. The projections of increasing frequency and intensity of extreme events may result in the creation of enduring disaster zones with displaced economies and populations, with disproportionate effects across the social strata. Disadvantaged groups including children, the elderly and the disabled bear the brunt of such events due to pre-existing challenges that exacerbate their vulnerability, thus requiring tailored measures in disaster situations to effectively address their needs. Despite the special protection that children and the disabled receive as stipulated in international human rights laws and standards, they are often ignored in disaster management. This study explores measures and interventions that can assist in achieving inclusive disaster planning and management with reference to the occurrence of cyclones in Mozambique. Qualitative methods involving literature studies are sued to shed insights on this theme. Overcoming the challenges to inclusion involves adopting rights-based approaches and mainstreaming vulnerable groups across all phases from planning to decision-making. Sound institutional collaboration in risk governance coupled with regular reiteration of risk mitigation measures and responsibilities is essential. Ultimately, given that cyclone-related losses have significantly reduced in developed nations due to improved management, Africa has an opportunity to develop tailored interventions that are best suited for its conditions. The study feeds into goal 10 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development that seeks to address inequalities together with those due to age, disability and opportunity amongst others.

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Donkor, F.K., Mearns, K. (2021). Building Inclusive Disaster Management Systems: Opportunities and Constraints in Addressing the Needs of the Vulnerable. In: Nhamo, G., Dube, K. (eds) Cyclones in Southern Africa. Sustainable Development Goals Series. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-74262-1_7

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